Novak Djokovic celebration explained as Serb adopts new routine at Wimbledon

Novak Djokovic has explained his strange response to his straight-set victory over Dan Evans. The sixth seed beat the British wildcard 6-3 6-2 6-0 on Centre Court on Thursday, then looked towards his box and pumped his fists in multiple directions.

Djokovic is known for his unusual celebrations. He often pretends to play the violin - a tribute to his daughter, Tara. And he revealed that his latest gesture was also an inside joke with kids.

Speaking after he reached the third round of Wimbledon, the 38-year-old said: "As I mentioned to the Serbian journalists, it's something between me and my children.

"We have a song, it's called 'Pump It Up'. I don't know how many of you guys know that. It's quite an old song. Good rhythm.

"So yeah, we're pumping. We love pumping. We pump after every win. I don't know the name of the artist. 'Don't you know, pump it up, you got to pump it up'. Disco song."

Djokovic has two children, Stefan, 10, and Tara, seven. Both of them were in his Centre Court box to watch him notch his 99th career victory at the All England Club.

The world No. 6 will be hoping to keep pumping all the way to next Sunday's final, as he continues his quest for a record 25th Grand Slam title. Djokovic has not lifted a Major trophy in almost two years, and he lost the 2023 and 2024 Wimbledon finals to Carlos Alcaraz.

But he believes this could be one of his best chances to finally get another Slam under his belt and rewrite history. He currently holds the Open Era record of 24 Majors but is tied with Margaret Court in the all-time standings.

Djokovic added: "I mean, if I play like today, I feel like I have a very good chance against anybody, really, on the Centre Court of Wimbledon, a place where I maybe feel the most comfortable on any court.

"Rod Laver Arena and Wimbledon Centre Court are the two courts where I've done so well throughout my career.

"I felt great physically, mentally sharp. Game-wise, I'm playing as well as I can, really, on grass. So hopefully I can keep it up.

"I met Gael Monfils in the locker room. He was waiting for his match. He kind of smiled at me and said, 'Good day in the office'. At this age, he said, We need those types of days.

"Of course, it's great. You want to keep on playing this way. It can be only one day, one match. Tomorrow or in two days can be a different story. I don't know. I'm trying to be cautious and keep it going. But yeah, aspirations and objectives are very high to go all the way."

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